Annual reproductive pattern in the springhaas, Pedetes capensis

The springhaas, Pedetes capensis, is capable of breeding throughout the year in the Orange Free State province of South Africa and fetuses of all sizes were found throughout the year. The highest incidence of pregnancies was found during the winter months July and August with the majority of embryos and small fetuses occurring between April and July and most larger fetuses thereafter. Birth weight was probably 280-300 g. Juveniles stay in the burrows until they have attained a body mass of 1.5 kg. Once spermatogenesis is established at a liveweight of about 2.5 kg it appears to be continuous. There was an indication that plasma LH and progesterone concentrations were related to corpus luteum diameter.